In Today’s Newsletter:
Weekend Subscriber Sale
On Sequitur New Releases
“I Can’t Recommend These Wines Highly Enough.”
Featured New Arrivals
Evening Lands’ Secret Restaurant Pours
It’s a Mighty, Mighty Brick House Sale
Save $6/Bottle on a Ribbon Ridge Classic
Trending Wines
Rosé of the Day
The New Vintage of Peyrassol’s “Chateau” Arrives
Jaboulet’s Star 2017 Northern Rhones
Collector’s Corner:
New Wines from a Champagne Rising Star
Weekend Subscriber Sale
On Sequitur New Releases
Arriving ETA Wednesday, May 20th:
Sequitur Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge2018 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Winery Note “The 2018 growing season was warm and dry, resulting in yet another remarkable vintage on Ribbon Ridge. Towards the end of the summer, just before harvest, Jack was born. With the arrival of our first grandchild, we felt for the first time the presence of a new generation on the farm, reminding us of the cycle of renewal and growth. This vintage has the bright freshness of new breath—we hope you enjoy it! “
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2018 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 97 points “A very succulent, concentrated pinot with a strong (40%) whole-cluster influence, delivering sappy, fresh and aromatic lift to the blueberry and ripe-cherry aromas. The palate has such succulent and assertive tannin drive, yet the textural interface remains silky and fluid. It has depth and volume and a very commanding finish. Give this some time. Try from 2024.”
We have verticals of both Sequitur Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in stock going back to their first vintage in 2014. Head to our webstore to shop them all.
“I Can’t Recommend These Wines Highly Enough.”
A Stunning Set of Classical Wines from Roagna
Roagna Albesani, Barbaresco DOCG 2014 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Cellar Selection. Camphor, rose and woodland berry aromas shape the nose on this structured red. The firm, full-bodied palate delivers juicy cherry, crushed raspberry and licorice alongside tight, noble tannins and vibrant acidity. It has incredible structure and a compelling purity of fruit. Give it time to fully develop. Drink 2022–2034.”
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Albesani is frankly on another level relative to the other Barbarescos Luca Roagna has recently added to his range. Explosive in its aromatic intensity and ample on the palate, the Albesani will leave readers who enjoy classically built wines weak at the knees. Everything that makes Nebbiolo so alluring comes through in this stunning Barbaresco. Freshly cut flowers, mint, chalk and sweet red cherries all race through this delicious and very promising Barbaresco. This is just a great expression of Nebbiolo.”
Roagna Langhe Rosso, Piedmont 2014 750ML ($44.95) $36.60 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 91 points “The 2014 Langhe Rosso is an absolutely gorgeous wine. Sweet tobacco, mint, crushed flowers, licorice, dried cherry and cedar give the 2014 striking complexity and nuance. In some vintages, the Langhe Rosso can be a bit frail, but the 2014 is supported by bright acids and beams of supporting tannin that confer a great deal of energy. The 2014 is a blend of estate fruit from both Pira and Pajè, that spent just under three years in oak and two years in cement.”
Featured New Arrivals
Evening Lands’ Secret Restaurant Pours
Evening Land “Brasserie 19” Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Evening Land “Brasserie 19” Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($419.95) $249 special (that’s only $20.75/bottle!)
Have Wine Ready to Pick Up?
Stop by our shop 10 am – 6 pm daily
Feel free to call ahead before you arrive or for curbside service:
#503-223-6002
(You’ll help free up some space for your next order!)
It’s a Mighty, Mighty Brick House Sale
Save $6/Bottle on a Ribbon Ridge Classic
Weekend Subscriber Sale
On Sequitur New Releases
“I Can’t Recommend These Wines Highly Enough.”
Featured New Arrivals
Evening Lands’ Secret Restaurant Pours
It’s a Mighty, Mighty Brick House Sale
Save $6/Bottle on a Ribbon Ridge Classic
Trending Wines
Rosé of the Day
The New Vintage of Peyrassol’s “Chateau” Arrives
Jaboulet’s Star 2017 Northern Rhones
Collector’s Corner:
New Wines from a Champagne Rising Star
Weekend Subscriber Sale
On Sequitur New Releases
We’ve got the new releases from Sequitur arriving this coming week and are excited to offer you a special sale on what looks to be their best vintage yet. Mix and match six or more bottles between the 2018 Sequitur Pinot Noir and 2018 Sequitur Chardonnay and receive a 10% discount on them.
2018 looks to be a modern classic for the Willamette Valley, combining the richness of a warm year like ’15 with more brightness, verve and freshness. We started hearing great things from the moment that grapes started coming in and winemakers of all styles have been raving about it ever since. Mike Etzel thinks his new releases are some of the best yet and reflects both the quality of the vintage and the increasing vine age of his vineyard.
Mike Etzel, the founder and winemaker of Sequitur, is a living legend in the Willamette Valley. He co-founded Beaux Freres in the late 80’s and was the winemaker there until recently passing the duties to his son. Never one to rest on his laurels or stay still, though, he began planting a vineyard adjacent to Beaux Freres in 2010—a project that became what we know as Sequitur.
It’s helpful to think of Sequitur as a distillation of everything Mike Etzel learned while starting and producing Beaux Freres over the decades. The Sequitur vineyard sits right next to the Beaux Freres “Upper Terrace” but is planted to a wider array of clones at tighter spacing. It’s been farmed biodynamically since the beginning and is sheltered with Douglas Fir—in short, it’s the fully realized vision of a man who’s helped define Willamette Valley Pinot.
The winemaking style is exactly what you’d expect—these are wines that are made by the same hand that delivered so many high scores to Beaux Freres (though his son, Mikey, is the day-to-day winemaker). Big, powerful and bold, these nevertheless have energy and grace that we think comes from the extra-attentive farming and unique clonal selection in the vineyard. In short order, they’ve established themselves as one of the very best producers in the Willamette Valley and deserve your attention as such.
2018 looks to be a modern classic for the Willamette Valley, combining the richness of a warm year like ’15 with more brightness, verve and freshness. We started hearing great things from the moment that grapes started coming in and winemakers of all styles have been raving about it ever since. Mike Etzel thinks his new releases are some of the best yet and reflects both the quality of the vintage and the increasing vine age of his vineyard.
Mike Etzel, the founder and winemaker of Sequitur, is a living legend in the Willamette Valley. He co-founded Beaux Freres in the late 80’s and was the winemaker there until recently passing the duties to his son. Never one to rest on his laurels or stay still, though, he began planting a vineyard adjacent to Beaux Freres in 2010—a project that became what we know as Sequitur.
It’s helpful to think of Sequitur as a distillation of everything Mike Etzel learned while starting and producing Beaux Freres over the decades. The Sequitur vineyard sits right next to the Beaux Freres “Upper Terrace” but is planted to a wider array of clones at tighter spacing. It’s been farmed biodynamically since the beginning and is sheltered with Douglas Fir—in short, it’s the fully realized vision of a man who’s helped define Willamette Valley Pinot.
The winemaking style is exactly what you’d expect—these are wines that are made by the same hand that delivered so many high scores to Beaux Freres (though his son, Mikey, is the day-to-day winemaker). Big, powerful and bold, these nevertheless have energy and grace that we think comes from the extra-attentive farming and unique clonal selection in the vineyard. In short order, they’ve established themselves as one of the very best producers in the Willamette Valley and deserve your attention as such.
Subscriber Special
Mix and Match Six or More 2018 Sequitur Wines, Receive a 10% Discount
Subscriber Special Valid Until 6PM Sunday, May 17th
Discount will not display online.
We will apply your discount manually before finalizing your order.
Mix and Match Six or More 2018 Sequitur Wines, Receive a 10% Discount
Subscriber Special Valid Until 6PM Sunday, May 17th
Discount will not display online.
We will apply your discount manually before finalizing your order.
Arriving ETA Wednesday, May 20th:
Sequitur Chardonnay, Ribbon Ridge2018 750ML ($89.95) $69 pre-arrival special
Winery Note “The 2018 growing season was warm and dry, resulting in yet another remarkable vintage on Ribbon Ridge. Towards the end of the summer, just before harvest, Jack was born. With the arrival of our first grandchild, we felt for the first time the presence of a new generation on the farm, reminding us of the cycle of renewal and growth. This vintage has the bright freshness of new breath—we hope you enjoy it! “
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Sequitur Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2018 750ML ($99.95) $79 pre-arrival special
James Suckling 97 points “A very succulent, concentrated pinot with a strong (40%) whole-cluster influence, delivering sappy, fresh and aromatic lift to the blueberry and ripe-cherry aromas. The palate has such succulent and assertive tannin drive, yet the textural interface remains silky and fluid. It has depth and volume and a very commanding finish. Give this some time. Try from 2024.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
The average listed price across all vintages is $92
The average listed price across all vintages is $92
Subscriber Special
Mix and Match Six or More 2018 Sequitur Wines, Receive a 10% Discount
Subscriber Special Valid Until 6PM Sunday, May 17th
Discount will not display online.
We will apply your discount manually before finalizing your order.
Mix and Match Six or More 2018 Sequitur Wines, Receive a 10% Discount
Subscriber Special Valid Until 6PM Sunday, May 17th
Discount will not display online.
We will apply your discount manually before finalizing your order.
We have verticals of both Sequitur Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in stock going back to their first vintage in 2014. Head to our webstore to shop them all.
“I Can’t Recommend These Wines Highly Enough.”
A Stunning Set of Classical Wines from Roagna
“This is an extraordinary set of wines from Luca Roagna. The 2014 Barbarescos are superb….As always, the wines are super-classic in feel. Over the last years, Roagna has quietly shortened the amount of time his wines spend in cask and began introducing cement in the cellar. Today’s wines have a sense of fruit purity and inner sweetness that the older wines often did not. I can’t recommend these wines highly enough.” –Antonio Galloni
Roagna has elevated themselves into the very upper echelon of producers in the Piedmont over the last decade and a half. These resolutely traditional wines hail from some of the best parcels in Paje and Pira (a Roagna monopole) plus recently acquired vineyards including Albasani (featured today). From top to bottom, these are absolutely brilliant wines.
We just received our allocation of 2014’s (Roagna holds their wine back before release—an old-school commitment) and these are must-buys for Piedmont collectors. Antonio Galloni said that “I can’t recommend these wines highly enough” while describing the Albesani as a wine that “will leave readers who enjoy classically built wines weak at the knees.” The Paje still remains the flagship and Kerin O’Keefe (author of an excellent book on Barolo and Barbaresco) called it a “gorgeous wine” in a “stunning lineup from the 2014 vintage” on her wait to awarding it 97 points for Wine Enthusiast.
These wines are in short supply and high demand, so act accordingly.
Just Arrived, In Stock Now:
Roagna Paje, Barbaresco DOCG 2014 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Another gorgeous wine in the estate’s stunning lineup from the 2014 vintage, this is a testament to how much better this difficult vintage was in Barbaresco when compared with other areas. With vines averaging over 40 years old, it offers aromas and flavors of crushed raspberry, cranberry, cinnamon and licorice along with a hint of game. It’s focused, taut and vibrant, with enveloping tannins. Drink 2021–2029.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “Mentholated cherry and spice aromas yield to vibrant plum, cherry, leather and tobacco flavors. This keeps coming at you, with a core of sweet, ripe fruit offsetting the grainy tannins on the finish. Best from 2023 through 2043. 700 cases made.”
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “Cinnamon, cedar, sweet pipe tobacco and leather are some of the nuances that emerge from the 2014 Barbaresco Pajè. Pliant and open-knit, the 2014 is surprisingly open for a young Roagna Barbaresco, which makes it almost shockingly easy to enjoy even now (in relative terms), in what is the very early going by Roagna standards. Even, so there is plenty of Nebbiolo structure and tannin. Sweet rose petal, mint, tobacco, underbrush, game, and sweet red berry fruit add to the wine’s stunning allure.”
Roagna has elevated themselves into the very upper echelon of producers in the Piedmont over the last decade and a half. These resolutely traditional wines hail from some of the best parcels in Paje and Pira (a Roagna monopole) plus recently acquired vineyards including Albasani (featured today). From top to bottom, these are absolutely brilliant wines.
We just received our allocation of 2014’s (Roagna holds their wine back before release—an old-school commitment) and these are must-buys for Piedmont collectors. Antonio Galloni said that “I can’t recommend these wines highly enough” while describing the Albesani as a wine that “will leave readers who enjoy classically built wines weak at the knees.” The Paje still remains the flagship and Kerin O’Keefe (author of an excellent book on Barolo and Barbaresco) called it a “gorgeous wine” in a “stunning lineup from the 2014 vintage” on her wait to awarding it 97 points for Wine Enthusiast.
These wines are in short supply and high demand, so act accordingly.
Just Arrived, In Stock Now:
Roagna Paje, Barbaresco DOCG 2014 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Another gorgeous wine in the estate’s stunning lineup from the 2014 vintage, this is a testament to how much better this difficult vintage was in Barbaresco when compared with other areas. With vines averaging over 40 years old, it offers aromas and flavors of crushed raspberry, cranberry, cinnamon and licorice along with a hint of game. It’s focused, taut and vibrant, with enveloping tannins. Drink 2021–2029.”
Wine Spectator 95 points “Mentholated cherry and spice aromas yield to vibrant plum, cherry, leather and tobacco flavors. This keeps coming at you, with a core of sweet, ripe fruit offsetting the grainy tannins on the finish. Best from 2023 through 2043. 700 cases made.”
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “Cinnamon, cedar, sweet pipe tobacco and leather are some of the nuances that emerge from the 2014 Barbaresco Pajè. Pliant and open-knit, the 2014 is surprisingly open for a young Roagna Barbaresco, which makes it almost shockingly easy to enjoy even now (in relative terms), in what is the very early going by Roagna standards. Even, so there is plenty of Nebbiolo structure and tannin. Sweet rose petal, mint, tobacco, underbrush, game, and sweet red berry fruit add to the wine’s stunning allure.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Roagna Albesani, Barbaresco DOCG 2014 750ML ($119.95) $99 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Wine Enthusiast 97 points “Cellar Selection. Camphor, rose and woodland berry aromas shape the nose on this structured red. The firm, full-bodied palate delivers juicy cherry, crushed raspberry and licorice alongside tight, noble tannins and vibrant acidity. It has incredible structure and a compelling purity of fruit. Give it time to fully develop. Drink 2022–2034.”
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The 2014 Barbaresco Albesani is frankly on another level relative to the other Barbarescos Luca Roagna has recently added to his range. Explosive in its aromatic intensity and ample on the palate, the Albesani will leave readers who enjoy classically built wines weak at the knees. Everything that makes Nebbiolo so alluring comes through in this stunning Barbaresco. Freshly cut flowers, mint, chalk and sweet red cherries all race through this delicious and very promising Barbaresco. This is just a great expression of Nebbiolo.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Roagna Langhe Rosso, Piedmont 2014 750ML ($44.95) $36.60 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 91 points “The 2014 Langhe Rosso is an absolutely gorgeous wine. Sweet tobacco, mint, crushed flowers, licorice, dried cherry and cedar give the 2014 striking complexity and nuance. In some vintages, the Langhe Rosso can be a bit frail, but the 2014 is supported by bright acids and beams of supporting tannin that confer a great deal of energy. The 2014 is a blend of estate fruit from both Pira and Pajè, that spent just under three years in oak and two years in cement.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Roagna Dolcetto d’Alba, Piedmont 2018 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 24 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 90 points “Roagna’s 2018 Dolcetto d’Alba is bright, floral and very nicely lifted, with striking aromatic nuance and tons of pure class. Sweet red cherry, licorice and crushed flowers are beautifully delineated. In 2018, the Dolcetto is especially refined, lifted and nervous in feel. Luca Roagna gave the 2018 an incredible 100 days on the skins, just like wines that were made decades ago, when, for practical reasons, farmers had multiple crops to look after and took wines off the skins around Christmas. The Roagna Dolcetto is made from two parcels in Barbaresco.”
Antonio Galloni 90 points “Roagna’s 2018 Dolcetto d’Alba is bright, floral and very nicely lifted, with striking aromatic nuance and tons of pure class. Sweet red cherry, licorice and crushed flowers are beautifully delineated. In 2018, the Dolcetto is especially refined, lifted and nervous in feel. Luca Roagna gave the 2018 an incredible 100 days on the skins, just like wines that were made decades ago, when, for practical reasons, farmers had multiple crops to look after and took wines off the skins around Christmas. The Roagna Dolcetto is made from two parcels in Barbaresco.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
Featured New Arrivals
Evening Lands’ Secret Restaurant Pours
We’ve got a rare and unique value offering for you today—two Evening Land wines whose exact (vineyard) origins are unknown, but which represents a fantastic value play. Bottled to be the house Pinot Noir and house Chardonnay for an upscale restaurant group by Evening Land, the famed Willamette producer, the wines are only available to you because the COVID crisis caused the restaurant to default on its commitment to the winery.
What does that mean? It means two wines that were produced and priced to be exceptional glass pours are now available to you at prices that are hard to believe, given their origins. While the winery (and restaurant) are keeping mum about where exactly the fruit for these was sourced, they live up to the expectations we have for an Evening Land wine, especially for the price. They’re made in a more forward, drink-now style than ELV’s other more cellar-oriented releases, so perfect for a quarantine stockpile.
Just Arrived, In Stock Now:
Evening Land “Brasserie 19” Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills 2016 750ML ($39.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Evening Land “Brasserie 19” Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills 2016 750ML ($419.95) $219 special (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
What does that mean? It means two wines that were produced and priced to be exceptional glass pours are now available to you at prices that are hard to believe, given their origins. While the winery (and restaurant) are keeping mum about where exactly the fruit for these was sourced, they live up to the expectations we have for an Evening Land wine, especially for the price. They’re made in a more forward, drink-now style than ELV’s other more cellar-oriented releases, so perfect for a quarantine stockpile.
Just Arrived, In Stock Now:
Evening Land “Brasserie 19” Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills 2016 750ML ($39.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Evening Land “Brasserie 19” Chardonnay, Eola-Amity Hills 2016 750ML ($419.95) $219 special (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Evening Land “Brasserie 19” Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Evening Land “Brasserie 19” Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2014 750ML ($419.95) $249 special (that’s only $20.75/bottle!)
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Have Wine Ready to Pick Up?
Stop by our shop 10 am – 6 pm daily
Feel free to call ahead before you arrive or for curbside service:
#503-223-6002
(You’ll help free up some space for your next order!)
It’s a Mighty, Mighty Brick House Sale
Save $6/Bottle on a Ribbon Ridge Classic
We’ve got an extra special price on Brick House’s Pinot Noir “Select”—one of the best values of their lineup to begin with. It’s classic example of Ribbon Ridge and a now-very-affordable bottling from one Oregon’s upper echelon Pinot producers. It arrives Tuesday for quarantine drinking.
Arriving ETA Tuesday:
Brick House Vineyards Select Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2017 750ML ($41.95) Was $36, Now $30.90 pre-arrival special
Erin Brooks – Wine Advocate 91 points “The entry-level 2017 Pinot Noir Select was made with about 20% whole clusters and aged 15 months in neutral French oak. It has a pale ruby color and aromas of crunchy cranberries, Bing cherries, red licorice, raspberries and blackberries with notes of Earl Grey tea leaves, cured meats and cracked pepper. The light to medium-bodied palate is soft, earthy and juicy with a refreshing finish. 846 cases produced.”
Winery Note “When Mother Nature offers a bountiful year, we routinely bottle this entry level Pinot Noir. As the name implies, the “Select” is a selection of barrels representing all the vineyard blocks on the farm at the discretion of the winemaker. The most easy-going and approachable of all our Pinot Noirs, the “Select” is a moderately priced, estate grown wine and a worthy accompaniment to a casual meal of salmon, lamb or wild game.”
Arriving ETA Tuesday:
Brick House Vineyards Select Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge 2017 750ML ($41.95) Was $36, Now $30.90 pre-arrival special
Erin Brooks – Wine Advocate 91 points “The entry-level 2017 Pinot Noir Select was made with about 20% whole clusters and aged 15 months in neutral French oak. It has a pale ruby color and aromas of crunchy cranberries, Bing cherries, red licorice, raspberries and blackberries with notes of Earl Grey tea leaves, cured meats and cracked pepper. The light to medium-bodied palate is soft, earthy and juicy with a refreshing finish. 846 cases produced.”
Winery Note “When Mother Nature offers a bountiful year, we routinely bottle this entry level Pinot Noir. As the name implies, the “Select” is a selection of barrels representing all the vineyard blocks on the farm at the discretion of the winemaker. The most easy-going and approachable of all our Pinot Noirs, the “Select” is a moderately priced, estate grown wine and a worthy accompaniment to a casual meal of salmon, lamb or wild game.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Vinopolis Wine Shop Curbside Pick Up
Don’t want to stop in?
Order Online / By Phone / By Email
When you’re ready to pick up, just park in our lot,
give us a call, & we’ll bring your order to your car.
(If another adult is picking up for you, please let us know
their name when placing your order.)
#503-223-6002
On Sale Now!
Trending Wines
A wine for all seasons and all meals—AG said it best: “the 2017 is superb value.”
G.D. Vajra Barbera d’Alba, Piedmont 2017 750ML ($24.95) $19.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 90 points “The 2017 Barbera d’Alba is a joyous wine that is sure to put a smile on readers’ faces. Pliant, supple and full of character, the 2017 offers superb density and tons of pure deliciousness. Sweet dark cherry, plum, mocha and sweet spice are pushed forward in this engaging, arrestingly beautiful Barbera. Best of all, the 2017 is a superb value.”
Wine Spectator 90 points “This is round, exuding black cherry, blackberry and iron flavors that are deftly integrated with the polished texture. The flavors build to a lengthy conclusion. Drink now through 2024. 2,500 cases made.”
G.D. Vajra Barbera d’Alba, Piedmont 2017 750ML ($24.95) $19.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni 90 points “The 2017 Barbera d’Alba is a joyous wine that is sure to put a smile on readers’ faces. Pliant, supple and full of character, the 2017 offers superb density and tons of pure deliciousness. Sweet dark cherry, plum, mocha and sweet spice are pushed forward in this engaging, arrestingly beautiful Barbera. Best of all, the 2017 is a superb value.”
Wine Spectator 90 points “This is round, exuding black cherry, blackberry and iron flavors that are deftly integrated with the polished texture. The flavors build to a lengthy conclusion. Drink now through 2024. 2,500 cases made.”
This is the lowest listed price on the West Coast today!
A different sort of still-very California Chardonnay from the hands of a master.
Diatom Bar-M Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2018 750ML ($29.95) $24 special, 17+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 Diatom Bar-M Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2018 750ML ($349.95) $259 special (that’s only $21.58/bottle —the lowest listed price in the country!)
Erin Brooks-Wine Advocate 93 points “The 2018 Chardonnay Bar-M has an open nose of quince, warm hay, green apple and pear, baker’s yeast, acacia and dried chamomile with white peach and nectarine plus hints of lime peel and crushed stone. Light to medium-bodied, it has a wonderful core of spicy fruit and wicked minerality in the mouth, amplified by juicy freshness and a long, energetic, layered finish. Yum! About 3,000 cases were produced.”
Antonio Galloni 93 points “From a site in Los Alamos, the 2018 Chardonnay Bar M is perfumed, lifted and wonderfully gracious in feel. Citrus and floral notes abound in a very pretty, expressive Chardonnay that shows the aromatic style that is so common here. White flowers, mint and saline overtones add closing layers to this pretty and inviting Chardonnay from Greg Brewer’s Diatom label.”
Winery note “Diatom Bar-M Vineyard is sourced from the stunning contiguous blocks of clone 76 Chardonnay planted over 20 years ago in the Los Alamos region of Santa Barbara County. Los Alamos is a magnificent and relatively unknown region whose sandy loam soil lends itself to fruit with a bit more flesh and weight – perfectly suited to the diatom model. Fermentation at very low temperature in small stainless-steel tanks, coupled with inhibited malo-lactic and short hose transit ensure precision and focus.”
Bosquet’s Gigondas is super user friendly and delicious. Pop and go!
Domaine des Bosquets Gigondas, Rhone 2016 750ML ($31.95) $26 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 92 points “Leading off the wines from bottle, the 2016 Gigondas is a classic wine from this estate, offering a deeper ruby/purple color as well as tons of garrigue, peppery spice, and earth intermixed with ample red and black fruits. Polished, rounded and sexy, with sweet tannin, it has a modern style that won’t appeal to traditionalists yet is beautifully done. The blend is 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, and the rest Cinsault.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 92 points “Vivid ruby-red. Lively, expansive red berry, floral pastille and white pepper scents, along with suggestions of garrigue and smoky minerals. Sweet, focused and seamless in the mouth, offering juicy raspberry, spicecake and lavender flavors that deepen steadily on the back half. Clings with very good authority on the gently tannic finish and leaves succulent floral and herb notes behind.”
Joe Czerwinski-Wine Advocate 92 points “Hints of garrigue accent raspberries and Rainier cherries in the 2016 Gigondas. This blend of 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre and 5% Cinsault is full-bodied and supple, with no hard edges, just lovely fruit. Long, seamless and delicious for drinking over the next 6-7 years, it’s a terrific introduction to the fruit-forward style at this estate. Tasted twice with consistent notes.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Here’s hoping Willamette Sauvignon is gonna become a thing. This wine’s been selling fast.
Championship Bottle “Lost Verses” Sauvignon Blanc, Dundee Hills 2018 750ML ($34.95) $26 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Winery note “A case that Sauvignon Blanc is the great underplanted grape variety in the Willamette Valley. Rich and tropical but with zesty acidity and intense minerality. The cool climate of the Willamette Valley means Sauvignon Blanc grapes hold on to their acidity, enjoying long hang-times and developing rich, exotic flavors (just as in far northeastern Italy). This wine is a prime example, displaying a dialectic between generous passion fruit and lime curd flavors and a natural vibrancy derived from the bright acidity. The combination of fruit and minerality is one of the hallmarks of Sauvignon Blanc which transcends the mundane.”
Championship Bottle “Lost Verses” Sauvignon Blanc, Dundee Hills 2018 750ML ($34.95) $26 special, 15 bottles in stock now
Winery note “A case that Sauvignon Blanc is the great underplanted grape variety in the Willamette Valley. Rich and tropical but with zesty acidity and intense minerality. The cool climate of the Willamette Valley means Sauvignon Blanc grapes hold on to their acidity, enjoying long hang-times and developing rich, exotic flavors (just as in far northeastern Italy). This wine is a prime example, displaying a dialectic between generous passion fruit and lime curd flavors and a natural vibrancy derived from the bright acidity. The combination of fruit and minerality is one of the hallmarks of Sauvignon Blanc which transcends the mundane.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
This is moving by the case for good reason—it’s real deal Alexander Valley Cabernet (under $20).
The Calling Cabernet, Alexander Valley 2016 750ML ($34.95) $19.50 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Case-12 The Calling Cabernet, Alexander Valley 2016 750ML ($359.95) $199 special (that’s only $16.58/bottle!)
Winery Note “This full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon presents blackberry and plum aromatics typical of the Alexander Valley. On the palate, the rich fruit is complemented by accents of sweet tobacco, vanilla, chocolate, and mocha. The elegant tannins, oak structure and balanced acidity will age this wine for 10-12 years.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $24.99
The average listed price is $29
The next best price is $24.99
The average listed price is $29
Rosé of the Day
The New Vintage of Peyrassol’s “Chateau” Rosé Arrives
In Stock Now:
Peyrassol Cotes de Provence ‘Chateau Peyrassol’ Rose 2019 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 24 bottles in stock now
VinePair Rose of the Year 2020 “A delightful reminder of what makes Provence rosé so popular, this wine ticks all the boxes. The nose is delicate but serves layers of white flowers, red fruit, and a sprinkle of savory spices. The palate is both bold and refreshing, with tangy fruit cut by a piercing jolt of acidity. Add a hint of wet rocks and a dusting of white pepper to the equation, and you’ve got yourself the best rosé of 2019. If you can’t find this exact bottle, the producer’s entire range is equally impressive and should be sought out. Average price: $35.”
Peyrassol Cotes de Provence ‘Chateau Peyrassol’ Rose 2019 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 24 bottles in stock now
VinePair Rose of the Year 2020 “A delightful reminder of what makes Provence rosé so popular, this wine ticks all the boxes. The nose is delicate but serves layers of white flowers, red fruit, and a sprinkle of savory spices. The palate is both bold and refreshing, with tangy fruit cut by a piercing jolt of acidity. Add a hint of wet rocks and a dusting of white pepper to the equation, and you’ve got yourself the best rosé of 2019. If you can’t find this exact bottle, the producer’s entire range is equally impressive and should be sought out. Average price: $35.”
Jaboulet’s Star 2017 Northern Rhones
The hill of Hermitage is both one of the most famous wine landmarks in the world and also so much more interesting than common lore purports it to be. The story goes that the hill of Hermitage was the home of a knight seeking solace from the horrors of the Crusades upon his return home. He planted the vineyards that would become Hermitage and then built a chapel to pray in and that building, the Chapel of Saint Christopher, is the defining marker of the hillside. The name, Hermitage, takes the name of the hermit’s refuge.
Jaboulet purchased the Chapel of Saint Christopher and the surrounding plot of land in 1919—possibly the choicest part of the whole appellation. This is the core of their blend for La Chapelle, which for many defines what Hermitage can be, though the entire line of wines Jaboulet makes from the AOC (and its neighbor) is exceptional. These are big, dense wines, with loads of Hermitage character and those effortless Syrah flavors that just don’t quit on extremely long finishes. Both 2017 (in stock now) and 2018 (arriving late this summer) look to be incredible successes for the northern Rhone, with Jaboulet one of the standout producers. These are wines to stock up on and savor.
In Stock Now:
Jaboulet Aine Chevalier de Sterimberg Hermitage Blanc, Rhone 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 21 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 94-97 points “Jaboulet’s 2017 Hermitage Blanc Le Chevalier de Sterimberg is approximately two-thirds Marsanne and one-third Roussanne. Subtle notes of crushed stone and pencil shavings frame honey, pineapple and baking spices, all wrapped around a tensile core of tangerine and lime. In a year when no La Chapelle Blanc is being made, this is the top white Hermitage from Jaboulet, and it’s a beauty, with a silky texture and a long, mouthwatering finish.”
Jaboulet Aine Hermitage La Chapelle, Rhone 2017 750ML ($219.95) $189 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 97-99 points “In need of serious air to open up, the 2017 Hermitage La Chapelle became more and more impressive the longer I kept it in the glass. At first it seemed a bit simple, if admirably plummy and rich, but by the time ten minutes had elapsed, it was showing off elegant notes of crushed stone, pencil shavings and cassis, while remaining full-bodied, rich and concentrated. It’s velvety and long on the finish, but something left me wanting a bit more. It’s surely a great La Chapelle, but will it reach that elusive triple-digit score?”
James Suckling 98 points “The icon is in dangerously seductive form. Such pristine dark cherries, blackberries and dark plums, dark chocolate, finely crushed spices and plenty of crushed dark stones on offer. The palate is very intense, very slick and fine tannins deliver an almost playfully soft impression. The oak is super integrated. Like La Maison Bleue, this approachability is an aberration, as it has immense power, concentration and length with such regal and alluring swagger at the finish. But there is so much more to come. Try from 2024, better after 2030.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 95-96 points “Brilliant magenta. A highly complex bouquet evokes ripe dark berries, cherry liqueur, incense and potpourri, while olive and exotic spice nuances build in the glass. Displays intense, alluringly sweet black/blue fruit, spicecake and violet pastille flavors that show sharp delineation and are braced by a spine of juicy acidity. Closes extremely long and precise, displaying a smoky, intensifying mineral quality and youthfully gripping tannins that build steadily.”
Jaboulet Aine Hermitage La Maison Bleue, Rhone 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59.50 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 94-96 points “Full-bodied, creamy and supple, the 2017 Hermitage La Maison Bleue looks to be a thrilling Hermitage to drink over the next 10-15 years. It’s loaded with mixed blueberries and raspberries, adds subtle notes of mocha and baking spices and picks up a savory hint of black olives on the long, silky finish. Don’t make the mistake of thinking only the La Chapelle is worth drinking, this should be a real beauty when it’s released next year.”
James Suckling 94 points “This is utterly delicious and has a very plush and sweetly fruited core of flavor with a sweepingly fleshy, rich and quite plush feel. The tannins are very fine here; sleek and assertive, they seem to suggest early drinking. It’s so balanced, too. However, this deserves to be reserved for later, as there’s a lot more to come. Try from 2024.”
Jaboulet purchased the Chapel of Saint Christopher and the surrounding plot of land in 1919—possibly the choicest part of the whole appellation. This is the core of their blend for La Chapelle, which for many defines what Hermitage can be, though the entire line of wines Jaboulet makes from the AOC (and its neighbor) is exceptional. These are big, dense wines, with loads of Hermitage character and those effortless Syrah flavors that just don’t quit on extremely long finishes. Both 2017 (in stock now) and 2018 (arriving late this summer) look to be incredible successes for the northern Rhone, with Jaboulet one of the standout producers. These are wines to stock up on and savor.
In Stock Now:
Jaboulet Aine Chevalier de Sterimberg Hermitage Blanc, Rhone 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 21 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 94-97 points “Jaboulet’s 2017 Hermitage Blanc Le Chevalier de Sterimberg is approximately two-thirds Marsanne and one-third Roussanne. Subtle notes of crushed stone and pencil shavings frame honey, pineapple and baking spices, all wrapped around a tensile core of tangerine and lime. In a year when no La Chapelle Blanc is being made, this is the top white Hermitage from Jaboulet, and it’s a beauty, with a silky texture and a long, mouthwatering finish.”
Jaboulet Aine Hermitage La Chapelle, Rhone 2017 750ML ($219.95) $189 special, 12 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 97-99 points “In need of serious air to open up, the 2017 Hermitage La Chapelle became more and more impressive the longer I kept it in the glass. At first it seemed a bit simple, if admirably plummy and rich, but by the time ten minutes had elapsed, it was showing off elegant notes of crushed stone, pencil shavings and cassis, while remaining full-bodied, rich and concentrated. It’s velvety and long on the finish, but something left me wanting a bit more. It’s surely a great La Chapelle, but will it reach that elusive triple-digit score?”
James Suckling 98 points “The icon is in dangerously seductive form. Such pristine dark cherries, blackberries and dark plums, dark chocolate, finely crushed spices and plenty of crushed dark stones on offer. The palate is very intense, very slick and fine tannins deliver an almost playfully soft impression. The oak is super integrated. Like La Maison Bleue, this approachability is an aberration, as it has immense power, concentration and length with such regal and alluring swagger at the finish. But there is so much more to come. Try from 2024, better after 2030.”
Josh Raynolds-Vinous 95-96 points “Brilliant magenta. A highly complex bouquet evokes ripe dark berries, cherry liqueur, incense and potpourri, while olive and exotic spice nuances build in the glass. Displays intense, alluringly sweet black/blue fruit, spicecake and violet pastille flavors that show sharp delineation and are braced by a spine of juicy acidity. Closes extremely long and precise, displaying a smoky, intensifying mineral quality and youthfully gripping tannins that build steadily.”
Jaboulet Aine Hermitage La Maison Bleue, Rhone 2017 750ML ($69.95) $59.50 special, 5 bottles in stock now
Wine Advocate 94-96 points “Full-bodied, creamy and supple, the 2017 Hermitage La Maison Bleue looks to be a thrilling Hermitage to drink over the next 10-15 years. It’s loaded with mixed blueberries and raspberries, adds subtle notes of mocha and baking spices and picks up a savory hint of black olives on the long, silky finish. Don’t make the mistake of thinking only the La Chapelle is worth drinking, this should be a real beauty when it’s released next year.”
James Suckling 94 points “This is utterly delicious and has a very plush and sweetly fruited core of flavor with a sweepingly fleshy, rich and quite plush feel. The tannins are very fine here; sleek and assertive, they seem to suggest early drinking. It’s so balanced, too. However, this deserves to be reserved for later, as there’s a lot more to come. Try from 2024.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Jaboulet Aine Domaine de Thalabert Crozes-Hermitage, Rhone 2017 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 36+ bottles in stock now
Jeb Dunnuck 94-96 points “From a scorcher of a vintage that had tiny yields, the 2017 Crozes Hermitage Domaine De Thalabert offers a deep purple color as well as a classic Thalabert bouquet of black fruits, black olive, iodine, and peppery herbs. It’s a rich, rounded, sumptuous beauty that has plenty of sweet fruit, moderate tannins, and a great finish. It’s not going to match the 2015, but it’s a rocking wine I’d be thrilled to drink.”
Collector’s Corner
New Wines from a Champagne Rising Star
New Wines from a Champagne Rising Star
Benoît Marguet is a fast-rising star in the Montage de Reims if not in the entire Champagne region…” –Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate
Benoit Marguet is one of the hottest names in Champagne. A young grower who is one of the leading voices for organic and biodynamic farming (in a region that’s not exactly known for progressive attitudes towards agriculture), his single-parcel wines have attracted attention of Michelin starred restaurants across Europe. These are wines that are rich across the palate yet incredibly mineral and precise in their flavors.
We’ve been able to secure small quantities of three of his most prized wines—the superlative Sapience as well as the compelling Crayeres and Avize & Cramant bottlings. Across the board, these are some of the most exciting wines coming out of Champagne and we’re excited to offer them to you.
Arriving ETA July
Marguet Pere & Fils Avize & Cramant Grand Cru, Champagne 2015 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Peter Liem note “[Writing on the 2011 release] This comes from two chardonnay vineyards, both farmed organically: Les Chantereines in Avize and Les Fourches du Levant in Cramant. It combines breadth and finesse in the inimitable style of the northern Côte des Blancs, with a pinpoint texture and a racy, elongated structure.”
Benoit Marguet is one of the hottest names in Champagne. A young grower who is one of the leading voices for organic and biodynamic farming (in a region that’s not exactly known for progressive attitudes towards agriculture), his single-parcel wines have attracted attention of Michelin starred restaurants across Europe. These are wines that are rich across the palate yet incredibly mineral and precise in their flavors.
We’ve been able to secure small quantities of three of his most prized wines—the superlative Sapience as well as the compelling Crayeres and Avize & Cramant bottlings. Across the board, these are some of the most exciting wines coming out of Champagne and we’re excited to offer them to you.
Arriving ETA July
Marguet Pere & Fils Avize & Cramant Grand Cru, Champagne 2015 750ML ($119.95) $99 pre-arrival special
Peter Liem note “[Writing on the 2011 release] This comes from two chardonnay vineyards, both farmed organically: Les Chantereines in Avize and Les Fourches du Levant in Cramant. It combines breadth and finesse in the inimitable style of the northern Côte des Blancs, with a pinpoint texture and a racy, elongated structure.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Marguet Pere & Fils ‘Les Crayeres’ Ambonnay Grand Cru, Champagne 2015 750ML ($119.95) $95 pre-arrival special
Peter Liem note “The Lieux-Dits collection is designed to highlight Marguet’s most distinctive parcels in Ambonnay: the first release was the outstanding 2008 Les Crayères, a blend of pinot noir and chardonnay from a prized parcel of massale-selected vines on Ambonnay’s mid-slope, planted in 1970.”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Marguet Pere & Fils ‘Sapience’ Premier Cru Extra-Brut, Champagne 2009 750ML ($269.95) $179 pre-arrival special
Stephan Reinhardt-Wine Advocate 93 points “A blend of 50% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir and 25% Pinot Meunier, the golden-yellow 2009 Premier Cru Brut Nature displays a clear, deep and well-concentrated bouquet of ripe and spicy fruits with a touch of lemon juice and oak. Pure, fresh and fruity on the palate (sweet cherries, red berries and citrus fruits), this is a very elegant, perfectly round, complex, well-balanced though tightly structured and vibrantly mineral cuvée with a long, clear, pure and salty finish. This is remarkably finessed. Unfortunately, I tasted the 2009 three weeks after the 2007 and the 2008 rather than tasting all three side by side, but qualitatively, it’s much closer to the 2008 than to the 2007 and is doubtlessly an impressive Brut Nature. Sapience is the name of Marguet’s prestige cuvée that is produced every single year. Marguet calls it “a new expression of Champagne.” It is a Premier Cru Brut Nature whose grapes are sourced in old, organic or biodynamically farmed vineyards from three well-known champagne growers in Cumières (Georges Laval), Trépail (David Léclapart) and Bouzy (Benoît Lahaye), who all work the soil with horses or tractors and protect the vines with herbal infusions and essential oils. The resulting millésimes (I had 2007, 2008 and 2009 plus the 2006 Oenothéque) are pure and quiet (or subtle) beauties that taste unique in texture and flavors but will benefit significantly from further bottle aging. In their youth, they are full of energy and vitality but not too good to lose control or patience—which is true for all of the wines from Marguet. Keep them (at least) for three or more years after the disgorgement, and you will get the best of them.”
James Suckling 93 points “Very complete, multifaceted style with strong, pastry-like lees influence and grilled cashew nuts, as well as a lightly peppery, spicy edge. Yellow-plum and subtly toasty brown-mushroom and grilled-hazelnut finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.”
Peter Liem “Since 2006, Marguet has been working with Hervé Jestin, the former chef de cave of Duval-Leroy who is now a consultant to many wine estates around Europe. Marguet has gradually integrated Jestin’s homeopathic and biodynamic practices into his own winemaking, and the two of them have collaborated to create a special, naturally grown champagne that encapsulates and expresses Jestin’s philosophies. The first vintage of this super-cuvée was 2006, released in 2013, and the production was divided: half of it was sold under the Jestin label, with the other half under the label Sapience, which Marguet has indicated is a separate brand from the Marguet label.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is almost a hundred dollars more: $274
The next best price is almost a hundred dollars more: $274
Thanks for reading!